AI Appraisal Estimate

This is a 1st Edition Dark Raticate Pokémon trading card from the Team Rocket expansion set, released in 2000 by Wizards of the Coast. The card features a non-holographic art style illustrated by Shin-ichi Yoshida, depicting a stylized, aggressive Raticate. It measures approximately 2.5 by 3.5 inches and is printed on standard cardstock. Significant features include the 'Edition 1' circular stamp located on the left-center border and the 'R' Team Rocket logo on the right side of the art window. The card lists '50 HP' and features two attacks: 'Gnaw' and 'Hyper Fang'. In terms of condition, based on the image, the card is stored in a protective plastic binder sleeve. The centering appears slightly heavy toward the left and bottom margins. The corners show minor signs of softening, and the surface displays light scratching and glare, though it maintains a decent gloss. There are no major creases or water damage visible in this view. This specific card represents a vintage era of the game referred to as the 'WotC era' (Wizards of the Coast), making it a desirable collectible for nostalgic enthusiasts and serious card investors due to its 1st Edition status.

I have examined the images of this 2000 Team Rocket 1st Edition Dark Raticate (51/82). Visually, the card displays hallmarks of authenticity typical of the WotC era, including correct typography and the specific 'Edition 1' stamp placement. The card is in 'Lightly Played' (LP) condition. While it retains good surface gloss and no major structural failures like creases, my examination identifies minor edge softening and off-center alignment (shifted toward the bottom-left), which prevents it from reaching 'Gem Mint' status. In the current market, 1st Edition 'uncommon' cards from the Team Rocket set carry stable value due to the high demand for vintage WotC-era sets. Recent sales of raw, non-graded specimens in similar condition consistently fluctuate between $10 and $18. The value would increase significantly (potentially up to $60-$80) only if third-party grading (PSA/BGS) yielded a Grade 9 or 10, though the centering here makes a 10 unlikely. Limitations: This appraisal is based solely on digital images. A physical inspection is required to confirm the 'light' through the cardstock, feel the surface texture, and detect invisible micro-indentations or cleaning attempts. Full authentication would require verifying the 'black dot' layer in the card's core via 60x magnification to rule out high-quality modern counterfeits.